Smart Car Tipping Prank Investigated in San Francisco

April 8, 2014

Smart Car owners in San Francisco have to be wondering whether the great mileage their cars get is worth it now that they are finding themselves targets for a prank called “Smart Car tipping.” Similar to cow tipping, vandals are pushing over the lightweight Smart Cars, which can completely total the car.

According to SFGate, Smart Car tipping has been happening around the world for nearly a decade, but just hit San Francisco. There were four reports of Smart Car tipping on Monday. There have been no arrests or suspects so far, making it likely that the Smart Car tipping spree will continue.

No one knows why these vandals are targeting Smart Cars. It could be that the vandals really hate these environmentally friendly vehicles, or are just people looking to cause trouble. Since Smart Cars weigh in at less than 2,000 pounds, they are expensive property that can be easily and quickly vandalized. As you can see in the video below, it only took a few young guys a matter of seconds to tip a Smart Car over on its side:

Andrew Smith was shocked to find his Smart Car tipped over on its roof early Monday and tells KCBS that the car was totaled. After getting past the initial shock, Smith admits that the prank was somewhat humorous. “Actually, I thought it was kind of funny,” Smith said. “It is just an object. I have lived in San Francisco for 20 years and I am not immune to the insanity that takes place in this city.”

Judging from the Twitter comments surrounding the Smart Car tipping spree, Smith isn’t the only one who thinks the prank is funny:

"Smart Car Tipping" has become a thing and I find that endlessly funny. Only thing that could make it better is if it's cows tipping them.

While some people are getting a kick out of the prank, Smart Car owner Kathy May says this is no laughing matter. “I am a retired licensed, clinical social worker,” said May. “But if you turn over my sweet, little car, we will not be talking out your problems. I will go directly for vengeance.”

Aside from facing May’s wrath if vandals go after her car, Smart Car tippers are also facing charges of felony vandalism if they are caught. In the case of a totaled Smart Car, someone found guilty on a felony vandalism charge could face up to three years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000.